Karas
Construction

If the answer is "No", use a step stool with non-slip steps and grip handrails.

If the answer is "No", install C- or D-type handles on cabinets and cupboards.

If the answer is "NO", increase task lighting at the sink. Uee the highest wattage possible.

If the answer is "No", mount an ABC-rated fire extinguisher in an easy-to-reach location close to the stove.

Compared to the high prices charged for medical institutions, remodeling a home is by far the most cost effective method to remain independent.

Being in your home allows us to continue with our everyday tasks and keeps our minds and spirits elevated.

Remodeling a home so a person can stay there helps contribute to their well being in many different ways: keeping them secure, comfortable, independent, and safe inside the home. Comprising 55 percent of all unintentional injury deaths, falls are the leading cause of injury or death among Americans aged 65 and over. Annually, more than 2.8 million elderly adults are treated in emergency rooms for fall-related injuries. Of all falls occurring in the home, 80 percent happen in the bathroom, and one in five falls results in a serious injury such as a broken bone or head injury. These injuries often decrease the mobility of elderly adults and cause them to reduce their everyday activities, even diminishing their ability to live on their own. Meanwhile, nearly 90 percent of adults aged 65 and older indicate that they prefer to remain in their own homes for as long as possible, with four out of five believing they will always live in their current home. Despite this risk, the elderly rebuff losing their independence: senior citizens have a greater fear of moving into a nursing home than of death. The Most Important Part; Implementing successful safety measures in the bathrooms starts with; Hiring a contractor who has professional training and education, and is qualified to install such key safety features. As a “Certified aging in place specialist”, or C.A.P.S. ,Karas Construction Company does just that. We have been a trusted name for over 35 years.

Being familiar with your home is an important safety concern. Knowing where things are and how to get from room to room helps us avoid making costly mistakes inside the home, greatly helping to prevent falls.

The stress of selling a home, moving and relocating to an institution can be overwhelming. Dorothy says it best: “There’s no place like home!”

It is much safer and easier for caregivers to administer care as well as making it easier for family and friends to visit and check-in.

Everyone feels safer and more secure in the place they know and love. Also, having family, friends, community, and neighbors nearby contribute to our overall well-being.

There’s no place like home. Your favorite chair, your mattress instead of a hospital bed, the space you are accustomed to; the temperature, the smells, just the familiarity of the space, all go towards the comfort of staying in your own home. Also, in a nursing home, there is a real chance seniors will have to deal with a roommate not of their choosing in a semi-private situation. Aging in Place offers the comfort of privacy that just isn’t available in many live-in facilities. Necessity, and in many cases state and federal laws, require certain things be done in group living facilities that don’t have to be done at home. The way things are cleaned may require industrial cleaners with strong smells, there may be no carpet in many areas for ease of cleaning, and doors may not lock in some cases. The Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987 dealt with reducing neglect in nursing homes but that legislation only afforded basic rights such as the right to nutrition. The regulations surrounding Medicare and Medicaid apply many other standards but still offer huge loopholes to older facilities that would directly damage someone’s comfort. For example, under the latest long-term care facility rules, only new facilities or newly certified facilities have to provide a bathroom with a sink and commode in all residential rooms.

Aging in place allows seniors to keep their current social network and expand upon it. It not only allows seniors to stay near current friends but it gives them the freedom to host social events if they prefer. Because many communities have vibrant and active senior centers, volunteer opportunities and other senior groups, seniors often find that their social circle expands dramatically with older active adults as they reach the age to join the senior center groups and activities. Many seniors find that it is simpler to eat out rather than cook at home and this gives another avenue of social connection. Most communities have local restaurants that offer senior discounts, making eating out more affordable. Also, with the obesity rate for seniors age 65 to 74 being 40 percent, social activities can help you stay active to benefit your health and your weight.

You’ve spent the majority of your life working so retirement should be about doing what you want. Staying at home allows seniors to be more independent and make their own decisions on a variety of topics. Even with live-in or occasional in-home help, you’re in charge of scheduling activities instead of a nursing home or assisted living situation where you must comply with a group schedule. In some group living situations, there are restrictions on visitors and meal times. Aging in place allows you to maintain control over your environment as well. Remodeling, repainting, rearranging furniture, redecorating, or even controlling the thermostat are things that might not be possible in other living situations. Especially for seniors who only need occasional help, aging in place is the best way to maintain independence and freedom. Even when some help is needed, aging in place lets you choose who will help and how they will help. This can be especially important when getting help with things like finances where it is vital to make sure that the person helping has your best interests in mind

Nursing homes and assisted living facilities are expensive. Add in that many seniors have almost paid off their home mortgages with over 20 percent between 65 and 74 having already paid them off completely, and staying at home becomes even more attractive. In other words, nursing home care for one person can quite literally cost more than the combined income of a married working couple in the prime of their lives. Average costs for assisted living are roughly half of a nursing home’s cost. Average Cost of Facility Care Nursing Home (Semi-Private) - $10,500./month, $119,000./year Assisted Living (Private Room) - $5,300./month, $63,600/year Comparatively, by staying at home, seniors can take advantage of Medicare coverage to help pay for in-home help on a part-time basis. Medicare covers part-time, in-home skilled nursing care and home health aide care, provided it is ordered by a doctor and you are homebound according to Medicare definitions. Even without Medicare help, in-home care is usually cheaper than assisted living or nursing homes with health aide services averaging $25.00 an hour. Average Cost of In-home Care Home Health Aide - $25.00/hour Homemaker Services - $80/day, $2,400/month, $28,000/year In addition, many seniors have friends or family nearby that can assist when needed and communities have support services for seniors that make staying at home possible without paying for extra care. Meals on Wheels, either the official organization or local similar organizations, provide meals to seniors in their homes. Many areas also have senior transport available for no cost or very low cost for shopping and doctor visits. By aging in place you will save money and add value to your home.

Loss of memory is a scary prospect for many as they age and being moved into a new environment, particularly an institutional environment, can worsen the progression of memory loss. Because of the increased social network connections and being able to keep your current social network that comes with staying in your community, a decrease in cognitive function can be slowed. One study found that seniors with “frequent” social activity contact saw a 70 percent reduction in cognitive decline when compared with more isolated individuals. There is also benefit to the familiarity of your surroundings helping to trigger memory. Smell is one of the most powerful memory facilitators for example, and studies have shown that in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, smells increase memory recall. Staying in your own home helps ensure familiar sights, sounds, and smells to help keep you connected cognitively.

You bet! Fortunately manufacturers are getting far better at providing products that serve the “accessibility market” without looking institutional, and Karas construction is familiar with these type of products. In addition, modern architectural design is transitioning to respecting “universal design” concepts, and you do not even notice these features, as they are becoming more common.

The designers and purveyors of Karas construction products have been very sensitive to these considerations. Most items to be installed in the home come in designer styles and colors. Many modifications, such as walk-in tubs and showers, or wider doorways, are now considered must have items that enhance both the appearance and value of the home.

* Always consult and check with a financial advisor first Medicare benefits Medicaid Home and Community-based services; HCBS Veterans programs Private insurance coverage Long Term care insurance Non-profit assistance from your town, city, village or Church Social Service agencies Home equity loans Reverse mortgages Federal housing administration The Home Modification loan program; HMLP Yourself your family or your children *Some equipment might also be tax deductible as a medical expense (* always check to verify this medical deduction first)

Some modifications take about a day. More extensive renovations will take longer, but generally not more than a few weeks (not months!).

Certified Aging in Place Specialist, C.A.P.S. are credentials obtained and maintained by Dave Karas the owner, which show a passion for the subject that most others just do not share.

You can expect an appointment quite rapidly, and you will be treated with respect, with your immediate needs and questions addressed. We will chat with you regarding your future plans and we will provide you with our ideas regarding how your home safety and comfort can be improved.

We have several reasons for that. As you know, there are many home improvements which increase the value of the home, and when the home is sold, much of the cost is recovered. Since 10,000 Americans turn 65 each day, we believes that there will be a ready market for your improved home when it is time to sell. Spending money on a home modification that allows you to remain in your home is an investment, when compared to a monthly expense of moving to an independent or assisted living community, which can never be recovered.

No, and our associates are not paid on a commission basis. When we talk to you about the whole suite of home modifications that can make your lifestyle safer and more pleasing, we are trying to help you plan for the future. When we serve your initial needs well, and you later see that you need additional home modification services, it is likely that you will contact us again. Our long term interest is to have you as a repeat client, and gain your trust so that you refer us to your friends.

The cost of safety improvements in your home vary on the extent of the modifications. Just as in any remodel job, it can be as inexpensive as a can of paint or as expensive as a barrier free, universally designed apartment addition to a home. The cost is driven by the needs of the client.

Successful Aging in Place truly involves much more than merely changing your home. Consequently, we want to help our clients, or potential clients inform themselves to the extent that they desire. One of the main reasons that people feel that they must leave the home that they love, is due to health or wellness issues. In many instances, lifestyle changes are possible that may help you remain in your home. A wealth of assistance is also available from local resources, and service providers can help you remain in your home, at a cost less than other alternatives.

No, when Karas construction designs your safety enhancements, we consider the immediate needs and solutions, with an eye toward making additional improvements simple add-ons, when and if needed. Our goal is to help you anticipate and plan for the changes in your home, that you might need in the future to assure your safety and well being.

Your lifestyle needs will change over time. Various services, products, and technologies can be planned to maximize the time during which you can comfortably remain in your home. Planning for these will enhance your home modification investment.

Yes, Karas construction maintains professional insurance workman’s compensation and vehicular insurance to protect our clients, and we urge people to only work with insured and qualified contractors.

Yes, but in a positive way. The modifications that we recommend adhere to the concepts of “Universal Design” which are meant to produce homes that are inherently accessible to people of all ages and abilities, and as such, increase the value of your home.

Having your doorways widened has aesthetic benefits in addition to being essential for accessibility reasons; wider doorways allow more light to flow through a home, creating a brighter, more cheerful atmosphere. They also help to create the illusion that the home is larger and more spacious than it actually is.

Lighting is often a major contributor to preventable indoor falls for older adults. As we age, poor lighting situations that may not have posed a problem at a younger age are now a potential risk. These may include poorly lit corridors or rooms, or nighttime trips from the bed to the bathroom. The physiological changes include: Less light gets to retina (1/3 to 1/5 compared to younger people) More sensitivity to glare Slower adaptation to changes in lighting Diseases: cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Lack of contrast sensitivity, less fine detail General yellowing that affects sensitivity to blue and violet color hues To facilitate aging in place, there are many modifications that can help combat these changes, from the simple to the more complex. First, it’s important to understand that more lighting does not necessarily mean better lighting. Color temperatures, placement, and intensity all affect whether additional lighting is a benefit or hindrance. Improvements can be broken up into two applications: ambient lighting and task lighting.

A stair-lift reduces the biggest injury hazard in your aging parent’s home at minimal cost, giving peace of mind for everyone. Maybe it’s the cozy split level you grew up in. Or maybe it’s the townhouse your parents moved into after emptying the nest. Either way, the place has stairs. Lately you’ve noticed how your elderly parents struggle with them. Now you wonder: How long can they safely stay there? A stair-lift is an increasingly popular answer. It’s quick and affordable to install. It’s unobtrusive. But, most importantly, it makes stairs far easier and safer for aging bodies to deal with. To that end, here are Four little known ways a stair-lift can help you achieve the goal of stay-at-home elder care – safely, easily, and affordably. They reduce the risk of a fall / they keep you more active / they help you to get more chores done / they make you safer and happier.

Are you looking for a vegetable garden that is easy to maintain? Consider growing your garden in raised garden boxes. Elevated raised gardens require less bending for planting, weeding, watering, and harvesting. A raised vegetable garden is also an excellent alternative for growing vegetables in difficult sites, such as hillsides. In these areas, depths can be adjusted easily to fit the slope of the hill. Depending on your individual needs, raised beds can take many forms, making them quite practical as well as beautiful. Wheelchair platforms allow you to maneuver around the beds with a walker or wheelchair with ease!

Adding ramps to a home’s entry and exits aren't just for wheelchair access. Even if your parents don’t use a wheelchair, a ramp eliminates the need to navigate steps, which can make maintaining balance difficult, even with a banister..You can also get indoor threshold ramps that you put in doorways to form a seamless surface to transition from one room to another.

Another option to be considered for aging in place shower design is a wet room. This is one of the simplest bathroom floor plans. ... A wet room is also a bathroom design that will allow for a lot of open space – an important factor for aging-in-place design. Keep in mind that space will be a greater issue as you age.

Walk-in showers are all the renovation rage these days, and for good reason: they're spacious (but still fit in a small space), elegant and much easier to access than tubs. They're also much easy to keep clean, thanks to stain- and moisture-resistant tile, and synthetic products.. They offer a wide range of possibilities, from rainfall showerheads to steam baths. And, most of all, they're beautiful in any bathroom, no matter your style. One benefit that can't be forgotten is that walk-in showers are much more accessible than baths. If someone in your family has mobility challenges, walk in showers are the perfect solution as they don't require stepping over a high ledge. And, it's an investment in your own future, as you may yourself grow into mobility issues as you get older. For homeowners with a view for future accessibility, this is the perfect shower to install in your home. It increases your home's value and makes it attractive to a wider range of buyers.

Home Elevators effectively solve accessibility problems, particularly when the person is wheelchair or scooter bound and unable to transfer without a lift. Home elevators are now considered a smart choice for home owners planning to “age in place” in homes they have long cherished and simply do not want to leave.

Technology has become one of the most important developments in helping people stay in their own home as they age. Home technology like medical alert, home security and remote monitoring or communication systems are particularly beneficial. Wearable technology like watches, necklaces and even shoe insoles monitor your loved ones’ movement throughout their home, as well as their vitals. You can outfit doorways with sensors that alert a family or emergency care service if someone enters a door but doesn’t exit within a specified period of time, indicating they may need help. If you’re looking for a home monitoring system specific to aging in place, a certified aging in place specialist can outfit your loved one's home with different sensors that you can monitor from your smartphone. You can know when your dad gets out of bed thanks to a pressure-sensitive mat placed next to his side of the bed. You can have a sensor put on the medicine cabinet door so you’ll know if your mom takes her medicine. Likewise, you can have heat sensors installed on the stove and front and rear door sensors put in. Home automation security and monitoring systems do more than provide caregiving functions. You can automate your parents’ home so they can control things like lights, entertainment systems, blinds and more, all from their smartphone or remote control.

It can take some people longer to get in and out of the tub and take care of everything they need to do in the bathroom. Replacing the overhead light fixture above the toilet and tub with one that has an infrared bulb as well as a regular bulb will help keep their bathroom warm and comfortable in the winter months.

A comfort height toilet is sometimes known as an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) toilet because the height matches that used for ADA-compliant toilets, 17 to 19 inches from floor to seat. This is like the height of a chair. The height of a standard toilet is about 15 inches from floor to seat. The one that is right for your home depends on the height of the family members, whether anyone has physical needs, and the way that family members transfer to and from the toilet. Best Use: It should be easy to sit on and stand up from. Also, you should be able to rest both feet on the floor. For this reason, a comfort height toilet will probably be the better choice for anyone who has difficulty standing from a low position, such as the elderly or disabled. A standard toilet will be the better option for a child or someone small in stature. If your feet dangle without touching, it can result in leg pain or in your legs falling asleep due to cut off circulation. Appearance: Both comfort height and standard toilets come in a variety of styles and colors. The most popular color is white or beige since these are better for the resale value of the home. Choices include a one- or two-piece design. The two-piece is the less expensive and more traditional. The one-piece is easy to clean with a more sleek look. The inner mechanisms can also vary in either height. They can be traditional gravity flush or have pressure-assisted flushing mechanisms. You can even have bidet functionality with either toilet.

Replacing the round doorknobs in your parents' home with lever-style handles helps people with arthritis or grip issues easily open doors. Likewise, swapping out round kitchen cabinet door knobs with bar- or lever-style handles makes accessing kitchen items a little easier.

We sell and install dozens of bidet seats, are also known as washlet’s. They are finally being recognized as a major benefit. In Europe it’s hard not to find one in a home. They're Heated. Seniors – When we get older, using the restroom can become an increasingly difficult task. Some turn to care-givers for assistance with wiping. This can lower a person’s self esteem – having to depend on someone else to use the toilet. A bidet seat can help restore confidence and allow you to regain your independence! Medical Conditions – Bidet toilet seats are great for those who have particular medical conditions. For example, you might have diminished strength in your hands or arms. Any patient who has gone through surgery in that region would also get relief and comfort with a new bidet. More Hygienic – Washing with water more effectively reduces the likelihood of bacteria germinating. In fact, using only toilet paper can actually spread bacteria across an area as opposed to cleaning it away! Bidet usage can also provide a hands-free experience – your hands stay on your lap, while the bidet seat works beneath you. It’s hands-free. Hemorrhoids – Because you're using water, it's the most comfortable cleaning method. Many hemorrhoids sufferers use bidets with a lot of success. Less abrasion = less irritation. A New Standard of Comfort – Bidet seats provide a more soothing cleaning experience as opposed to using toilet paper. Cleaning with toilet paper is often abrasive to a person's sensitive areas. Plus toilet paper can contain perfumes which may lead to further irritation. For Women & New Mothers – Menstrual periods oftentimes may produce unfresh feelings. Using water to wash yourself will help you feel clean. Mothers who have given birth recently may be extra sensitive in that area. Making use of a bidet's wash features can be a more soothing and relaxing way to go. Water Cleans You Better than Paper – Water is more effective at cleaning you than dry paper. But you knew that already. A New Standard of Comfort – Bidet seats provide a more soothing cleaning experience as opposed to using toilet paper. Cleaning with toilet paper is often abrasive to a person's sensitive areas. Plus toilet paper can contain perfumes which may lead to further irritation. Eco-Friendly – Over 9 million trees are cut down to manufacture U.S. toilet paper every year. By cutting back on our toilet paper consumption, we can reduce our overall paper waste.

Faucets on kitchen and bathroom sinks are great for people with arthritis or grip issues. You can also replace twist faucet handles with levers. Another popular faucet upgrade is installing anti-scald faucets in your parent’s tub or shower. Anti-scald faucets prevent sudden bursts of hot water if the cold water is temporarily redirected due to the toilet being flushed or the washing machine filling up. Another way to prevent scalding is to lower the maximum water temperature on your parents' water heater to 120 degrees or less.

A mat or non-slip adhesive strips applied to the bathtub and shower floor surface provides stable footing. Sometimes elders with decreased vision and poor depth perception view bathtub surfaces as "bottomless pits" and become fearful when entering. Placing a mat or strips on the tub/shower floor can eliminate this problem by providing visual cuing.

One-fourth of older Americans fall each year, according to the National Council on Aging. Every 19 minutes, a senior dies from a fall, and every 11 seconds, an older adult is sent to the emergency room for treatment for a fall-related injury. Falls in the home often result in minor injuries, but a fall in the bathroom can be fatal. Bathrooms can be a hazardous place for seniors, particularly those with balance issues. Common hazards include: Slippery floors in showers and bathtubs. Low toilet seats, shower chairs that are not slip-resistant, insufficiently secured grab bars or towel racks. A few simple changes can make the bathroom a safer place for seniors and reduce the risk of injury. Grab bars are essential for seniors with poor balance and difficulty getting in and out of the tub. Many seniors rely on towel bars to keep them steady and balanced when getting in and out of the bathtub, but these bars are not designed to support more than a few pounds of weight. Install grab bars in places that are easy to reach, so seniors can enter and exit the tub with greater ease.

Falls often occur when elders are getting in and out of the tub or shower. Having a non-slip mat (or decals) on the floor of the shower or tub as well as a non-slip rug on the floor when stepping out of tub or shower (to prevent slipping on wet tiles) helps the elder feel more stable and can reduces slipping. Stepping onto a towel is bad; the towel can easily slide away from underneath the feet. A non-slip rug in front of the toilet and by the sink area can help to reduce slipping on wet tiles.

Prior to having selective surgery done a certified aging in place specialist can work together with an P.T. to best determine your post surgery needs.

There are many benefits of a walk in tub. Walk-in tub benefits are many; from stress reduction, reliving sore aching muscles, hydrotherapy, and aromatherapy.They helps heal the mind, body, and soul in many ways. Walk in tubs offer a variety of spa systems that can help with pain and stress relief. ... Enjoying a safe, stress-free bathing experience is what every person deserves.

When it comes to aging in place, never underestimate the challenge of doing laundry. While it may seem like an easy activity, few daily tasks require you to use more electricity, lift more weight, or deal with a wider variety of chemicals. As you or your loved ones age, it is essential to make sure that your laundry room is safe, convenient, and easy to access. Creating an accessible laundry room is no simple matter. Not only do you have to accommodate many different types of equipment, but the room itself needs to be in a convenient location and properly organized.

Having a master bedroom on the first floor is ideal for aging in place being able to remain comfortably in your home without having to deal with stairs. It allows you easy and safe access to the rooms you'll use every day (kitchen, family room, laundry, garage).

AARP has found that grab bars and hand railings are the most often installed initial step taken by its clients. Strategically located grab bars and hand railings can be unobtrusive and address the #1 cause of injuries in older adults, falls.

Benefits of Installing a Wheelchair Ramp in Your Home. Wheelchair ramps enable physically disabled as well as elderly people to enjoy complete freedom, as they allow users to move in and around the home safely and freely. It is a cost-effective and practical solution to enhance mobility

A vertical platform lift is a specially designed lift that a person conveniently rolls into in the safety of his or her wheelchair or power chair and thereby has easy access to other levels of the office, home or property. Its optimal features include a weight capacity of up to 750 pounds, multiple stop configurations, safe and easy-to-operate controls, built in safety features and cost effective options.

There are several benefits of installing handrails next to your stairs, walkways, and other inclined areas. The biggest – and most obvious benefit is related to your safety while ascending and descending the slope or steps.

If your house has stairs, one of the best ways to reduce risk is to have a bathroom on the first floor. Some two-story homes, especially in certain parts of the country or in older, more established neighborhoods, have only one bathroom: upstairs, close to the bedrooms. While that made sense years ago, it also created problems for anyone who had trouble climbing stairs. Chair lifts can help with this, but a bathroom on the first floor is very important when you’re aging in place. If your home doesn’t have a lot of space on the first floor, getting a bathroom in there can seem difficult. But there are generally ways to make space. You may need to give up part or all of a bedroom, sun porch, patio, office, or another small room that you aren’t really using. A large closet can also be part of a bathroom conversion, if there is enough room. But keep in mind that the first floor bathroom must be accessible, and that means a bigger space that can accommodate a walker or a wheelchair. With a larger space, your first floor bathroom will be much safer and easier to use as you age. . Every bathroom should be a place to relax, de-stress, and recharge your body and soul.

If the answer is "No", use a step stool with non-slip steps and grip handrails.

If the answer is "No", install C- or D-type handles on cabinets and cupboards.

If the answer is "NO", increase task lighting at the sink. Uee the highest wattage possible.

If the answer is "No", mount an ABC-rated fire extinguisher in an easy-to-reach location close to the stove.

Compared to the high prices charged for medical institutions, remodeling a home is by far the most cost effective method to remain independent.

Being in your home allows us to continue with our everyday tasks and keeps our minds and spirits elevated.

Remodeling a home so a person can stay there helps contribute to their well being in many different ways: keeping them secure, comfortable, independent, and safe inside the home. Comprising 55 percent of all unintentional injury deaths, falls are the leading cause of injury or death among Americans aged 65 and over. Annually, more than 2.8 million elderly adults are treated in emergency rooms for fall-related injuries. Of all falls occurring in the home, 80 percent happen in the bathroom, and one in five falls results in a serious injury such as a broken bone or head injury. These injuries often decrease the mobility of elderly adults and cause them to reduce their everyday activities, even diminishing their ability to live on their own. Meanwhile, nearly 90 percent of adults aged 65 and older indicate that they prefer to remain in their own homes for as long as possible, with four out of five believing they will always live in their current home. Despite this risk, the elderly rebuff losing their independence: senior citizens have a greater fear of moving into a nursing home than of death. The Most Important Part; Implementing successful safety measures in the bathrooms starts with; Hiring a contractor who has professional training and education, and is qualified to install such key safety features. As a “Certified aging in place specialist”, or C.A.P.S. ,Karas Construction Company does just that. We have been a trusted name for over 35 years.

Being familiar with your home is an important safety concern. Knowing where things are and how to get from room to room helps us avoid making costly mistakes inside the home, greatly helping to prevent falls.

The stress of selling a home, moving and relocating to an institution can be overwhelming. Dorothy says it best: “There’s no place like home!”

It is much safer and easier for caregivers to administer care as well as making it easier for family and friends to visit and check-in.

Everyone feels safer and more secure in the place they know and love. Also, having family, friends, community, and neighbors nearby contribute to our overall well-being.

There’s no place like home. Your favorite chair, your mattress instead of a hospital bed, the space you are accustomed to; the temperature, the smells, just the familiarity of the space, all go towards the comfort of staying in your own home. Also, in a nursing home, there is a real chance seniors will have to deal with a roommate not of their choosing in a semi-private situation. Aging in Place offers the comfort of privacy that just isn’t available in many live-in facilities. Necessity, and in many cases state and federal laws, require certain things be done in group living facilities that don’t have to be done at home. The way things are cleaned may require industrial cleaners with strong smells, there may be no carpet in many areas for ease of cleaning, and doors may not lock in some cases. The Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987 dealt with reducing neglect in nursing homes but that legislation only afforded basic rights such as the right to nutrition. The regulations surrounding Medicare and Medicaid apply many other standards but still offer huge loopholes to older facilities that would directly damage someone’s comfort. For example, under the latest long-term care facility rules, only new facilities or newly certified facilities have to provide a bathroom with a sink and commode in all residential rooms.

Aging in place allows seniors to keep their current social network and expand upon it. It not only allows seniors to stay near current friends but it gives them the freedom to host social events if they prefer. Because many communities have vibrant and active senior centers, volunteer opportunities and other senior groups, seniors often find that their social circle expands dramatically with older active adults as they reach the age to join the senior center groups and activities. Many seniors find that it is simpler to eat out rather than cook at home and this gives another avenue of social connection. Most communities have local restaurants that offer senior discounts, making eating out more affordable. Also, with the obesity rate for seniors age 65 to 74 being 40 percent, social activities can help you stay active to benefit your health and your weight.

You’ve spent the majority of your life working so retirement should be about doing what you want. Staying at home allows seniors to be more independent and make their own decisions on a variety of topics. Even with live-in or occasional in-home help, you’re in charge of scheduling activities instead of a nursing home or assisted living situation where you must comply with a group schedule. In some group living situations, there are restrictions on visitors and meal times. Aging in place allows you to maintain control over your environment as well. Remodeling, repainting, rearranging furniture, redecorating, or even controlling the thermostat are things that might not be possible in other living situations. Especially for seniors who only need occasional help, aging in place is the best way to maintain independence and freedom. Even when some help is needed, aging in place lets you choose who will help and how they will help. This can be especially important when getting help with things like finances where it is vital to make sure that the person helping has your best interests in mind

Nursing homes and assisted living facilities are expensive. Add in that many seniors have almost paid off their home mortgages with over 20 percent between 65 and 74 having already paid them off completely, and staying at home becomes even more attractive. In other words, nursing home care for one person can quite literally cost more than the combined income of a married working couple in the prime of their lives. Average costs for assisted living are roughly half of a nursing home’s cost. Average Cost of Facility Care Nursing Home (Semi-Private) - $10,500./month, $119,000./year Assisted Living (Private Room) - $5,300./month, $63,600/year Comparatively, by staying at home, seniors can take advantage of Medicare coverage to help pay for in-home help on a part-time basis. Medicare covers part-time, in-home skilled nursing care and home health aide care, provided it is ordered by a doctor and you are homebound according to Medicare definitions. Even without Medicare help, in-home care is usually cheaper than assisted living or nursing homes with health aide services averaging $25.00 an hour. Average Cost of In-home Care Home Health Aide - $25.00/hour Homemaker Services - $80/day, $2,400/month, $28,000/year In addition, many seniors have friends or family nearby that can assist when needed and communities have support services for seniors that make staying at home possible without paying for extra care. Meals on Wheels, either the official organization or local similar organizations, provide meals to seniors in their homes. Many areas also have senior transport available for no cost or very low cost for shopping and doctor visits. By aging in place you will save money and add value to your home.

Loss of memory is a scary prospect for many as they age and being moved into a new environment, particularly an institutional environment, can worsen the progression of memory loss. Because of the increased social network connections and being able to keep your current social network that comes with staying in your community, a decrease in cognitive function can be slowed. One study found that seniors with “frequent” social activity contact saw a 70 percent reduction in cognitive decline when compared with more isolated individuals. There is also benefit to the familiarity of your surroundings helping to trigger memory. Smell is one of the most powerful memory facilitators for example, and studies have shown that in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, smells increase memory recall. Staying in your own home helps ensure familiar sights, sounds, and smells to help keep you connected cognitively.

You bet! Fortunately manufacturers are getting far better at providing products that serve the “accessibility market” without looking institutional, and Karas construction is familiar with these type of products. In addition, modern architectural design is transitioning to respecting “universal design” concepts, and you do not even notice these features, as they are becoming more common.

The designers and purveyors of Karas construction products have been very sensitive to these considerations. Most items to be installed in the home come in designer styles and colors. Many modifications, such as walk-in tubs and showers, or wider doorways, are now considered must have items that enhance both the appearance and value of the home.

* Always consult and check with a financial advisor first Medicare benefits Medicaid Home and Community-based services; HCBS Veterans programs Private insurance coverage Long Term care insurance Non-profit assistance from your town, city, village or Church Social Service agencies Home equity loans Reverse mortgages Federal housing administration The Home Modification loan program; HMLP Yourself your family or your children *Some equipment might also be tax deductible as a medical expense (* always check to verify this medical deduction first)

Some modifications take about a day. More extensive renovations will take longer, but generally not more than a few weeks (not months!).

Certified Aging in Place Specialist, C.A.P.S. are credentials obtained and maintained by Dave Karas the owner, which show a passion for the subject that most others just do not share.

You can expect an appointment quite rapidly, and you will be treated with respect, with your immediate needs and questions addressed. We will chat with you regarding your future plans and we will provide you with our ideas regarding how your home safety and comfort can be improved.

We have several reasons for that. As you know, there are many home improvements which increase the value of the home, and when the home is sold, much of the cost is recovered. Since 10,000 Americans turn 65 each day, we believes that there will be a ready market for your improved home when it is time to sell. Spending money on a home modification that allows you to remain in your home is an investment, when compared to a monthly expense of moving to an independent or assisted living community, which can never be recovered.

No, and our associates are not paid on a commission basis. When we talk to you about the whole suite of home modifications that can make your lifestyle safer and more pleasing, we are trying to help you plan for the future. When we serve your initial needs well, and you later see that you need additional home modification services, it is likely that you will contact us again. Our long term interest is to have you as a repeat client, and gain your trust so that you refer us to your friends.

The cost of safety improvements in your home vary on the extent of the modifications. Just as in any remodel job, it can be as inexpensive as a can of paint or as expensive as a barrier free, universally designed apartment addition to a home. The cost is driven by the needs of the client.

Successful Aging in Place truly involves much more than merely changing your home. Consequently, we want to help our clients, or potential clients inform themselves to the extent that they desire. One of the main reasons that people feel that they must leave the home that they love, is due to health or wellness issues. In many instances, lifestyle changes are possible that may help you remain in your home. A wealth of assistance is also available from local resources, and service providers can help you remain in your home, at a cost less than other alternatives.

No, when Karas construction designs your safety enhancements, we consider the immediate needs and solutions, with an eye toward making additional improvements simple add-ons, when and if needed. Our goal is to help you anticipate and plan for the changes in your home, that you might need in the future to assure your safety and well being.

Your lifestyle needs will change over time. Various services, products, and technologies can be planned to maximize the time during which you can comfortably remain in your home. Planning for these will enhance your home modification investment.

Yes, Karas construction maintains professional insurance workman’s compensation and vehicular insurance to protect our clients, and we urge people to only work with insured and qualified contractors.

Yes, but in a positive way. The modifications that we recommend adhere to the concepts of “Universal Design” which are meant to produce homes that are inherently accessible to people of all ages and abilities, and as such, increase the value of your home.

Having your doorways widened has aesthetic benefits in addition to being essential for accessibility reasons; wider doorways allow more light to flow through a home, creating a brighter, more cheerful atmosphere. They also help to create the illusion that the home is larger and more spacious than it actually is.

Lighting is often a major contributor to preventable indoor falls for older adults. As we age, poor lighting situations that may not have posed a problem at a younger age are now a potential risk. These may include poorly lit corridors or rooms, or nighttime trips from the bed to the bathroom. The physiological changes include: Less light gets to retina (1/3 to 1/5 compared to younger people) More sensitivity to glare Slower adaptation to changes in lighting Diseases: cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Lack of contrast sensitivity, less fine detail General yellowing that affects sensitivity to blue and violet color hues To facilitate aging in place, there are many modifications that can help combat these changes, from the simple to the more complex. First, it’s important to understand that more lighting does not necessarily mean better lighting. Color temperatures, placement, and intensity all affect whether additional lighting is a benefit or hindrance. Improvements can be broken up into two applications: ambient lighting and task lighting.

A stair-lift reduces the biggest injury hazard in your aging parent’s home at minimal cost, giving peace of mind for everyone. Maybe it’s the cozy split level you grew up in. Or maybe it’s the townhouse your parents moved into after emptying the nest. Either way, the place has stairs. Lately you’ve noticed how your elderly parents struggle with them. Now you wonder: How long can they safely stay there? A stair-lift is an increasingly popular answer. It’s quick and affordable to install. It’s unobtrusive. But, most importantly, it makes stairs far easier and safer for aging bodies to deal with. To that end, here are Four little known ways a stair-lift can help you achieve the goal of stay-at-home elder care – safely, easily, and affordably. They reduce the risk of a fall / they keep you more active / they help you to get more chores done / they make you safer and happier.

Are you looking for a vegetable garden that is easy to maintain? Consider growing your garden in raised garden boxes. Elevated raised gardens require less bending for planting, weeding, watering, and harvesting. A raised vegetable garden is also an excellent alternative for growing vegetables in difficult sites, such as hillsides. In these areas, depths can be adjusted easily to fit the slope of the hill. Depending on your individual needs, raised beds can take many forms, making them quite practical as well as beautiful. Wheelchair platforms allow you to maneuver around the beds with a walker or wheelchair with ease!

Adding ramps to a home’s entry and exits aren't just for wheelchair access. Even if your parents don’t use a wheelchair, a ramp eliminates the need to navigate steps, which can make maintaining balance difficult, even with a banister..You can also get indoor threshold ramps that you put in doorways to form a seamless surface to transition from one room to another.

Another option to be considered for aging in place shower design is a wet room. This is one of the simplest bathroom floor plans. ... A wet room is also a bathroom design that will allow for a lot of open space – an important factor for aging-in-place design. Keep in mind that space will be a greater issue as you age.

Walk-in showers are all the renovation rage these days, and for good reason: they're spacious (but still fit in a small space), elegant and much easier to access than tubs. They're also much easy to keep clean, thanks to stain- and moisture-resistant tile, and synthetic products.. They offer a wide range of possibilities, from rainfall showerheads to steam baths. And, most of all, they're beautiful in any bathroom, no matter your style. One benefit that can't be forgotten is that walk-in showers are much more accessible than baths. If someone in your family has mobility challenges, walk in showers are the perfect solution as they don't require stepping over a high ledge. And, it's an investment in your own future, as you may yourself grow into mobility issues as you get older. For homeowners with a view for future accessibility, this is the perfect shower to install in your home. It increases your home's value and makes it attractive to a wider range of buyers.

Home Elevators effectively solve accessibility problems, particularly when the person is wheelchair or scooter bound and unable to transfer without a lift. Home elevators are now considered a smart choice for home owners planning to “age in place” in homes they have long cherished and simply do not want to leave.

Technology has become one of the most important developments in helping people stay in their own home as they age. Home technology like medical alert, home security and remote monitoring or communication systems are particularly beneficial. Wearable technology like watches, necklaces and even shoe insoles monitor your loved ones’ movement throughout their home, as well as their vitals. You can outfit doorways with sensors that alert a family or emergency care service if someone enters a door but doesn’t exit within a specified period of time, indicating they may need help. If you’re looking for a home monitoring system specific to aging in place, a certified aging in place specialist can outfit your loved one's home with different sensors that you can monitor from your smartphone. You can know when your dad gets out of bed thanks to a pressure-sensitive mat placed next to his side of the bed. You can have a sensor put on the medicine cabinet door so you’ll know if your mom takes her medicine. Likewise, you can have heat sensors installed on the stove and front and rear door sensors put in. Home automation security and monitoring systems do more than provide caregiving functions. You can automate your parents’ home so they can control things like lights, entertainment systems, blinds and more, all from their smartphone or remote control.

It can take some people longer to get in and out of the tub and take care of everything they need to do in the bathroom. Replacing the overhead light fixture above the toilet and tub with one that has an infrared bulb as well as a regular bulb will help keep their bathroom warm and comfortable in the winter months.

A comfort height toilet is sometimes known as an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) toilet because the height matches that used for ADA-compliant toilets, 17 to 19 inches from floor to seat. This is like the height of a chair. The height of a standard toilet is about 15 inches from floor to seat. The one that is right for your home depends on the height of the family members, whether anyone has physical needs, and the way that family members transfer to and from the toilet. Best Use: It should be easy to sit on and stand up from. Also, you should be able to rest both feet on the floor. For this reason, a comfort height toilet will probably be the better choice for anyone who has difficulty standing from a low position, such as the elderly or disabled. A standard toilet will be the better option for a child or someone small in stature. If your feet dangle without touching, it can result in leg pain or in your legs falling asleep due to cut off circulation. Appearance: Both comfort height and standard toilets come in a variety of styles and colors. The most popular color is white or beige since these are better for the resale value of the home. Choices include a one- or two-piece design. The two-piece is the less expensive and more traditional. The one-piece is easy to clean with a more sleek look. The inner mechanisms can also vary in either height. They can be traditional gravity flush or have pressure-assisted flushing mechanisms. You can even have bidet functionality with either toilet.

Replacing the round doorknobs in your parents' home with lever-style handles helps people with arthritis or grip issues easily open doors. Likewise, swapping out round kitchen cabinet door knobs with bar- or lever-style handles makes accessing kitchen items a little easier.

We sell and install dozens of bidet seats, are also known as washlet’s. They are finally being recognized as a major benefit. In Europe it’s hard not to find one in a home. They're Heated. Seniors – When we get older, using the restroom can become an increasingly difficult task. Some turn to care-givers for assistance with wiping. This can lower a person’s self esteem – having to depend on someone else to use the toilet. A bidet seat can help restore confidence and allow you to regain your independence! Medical Conditions – Bidet toilet seats are great for those who have particular medical conditions. For example, you might have diminished strength in your hands or arms. Any patient who has gone through surgery in that region would also get relief and comfort with a new bidet. More Hygienic – Washing with water more effectively reduces the likelihood of bacteria germinating. In fact, using only toilet paper can actually spread bacteria across an area as opposed to cleaning it away! Bidet usage can also provide a hands-free experience – your hands stay on your lap, while the bidet seat works beneath you. It’s hands-free. Hemorrhoids – Because you're using water, it's the most comfortable cleaning method. Many hemorrhoids sufferers use bidets with a lot of success. Less abrasion = less irritation. A New Standard of Comfort – Bidet seats provide a more soothing cleaning experience as opposed to using toilet paper. Cleaning with toilet paper is often abrasive to a person's sensitive areas. Plus toilet paper can contain perfumes which may lead to further irritation. For Women & New Mothers – Menstrual periods oftentimes may produce unfresh feelings. Using water to wash yourself will help you feel clean. Mothers who have given birth recently may be extra sensitive in that area. Making use of a bidet's wash features can be a more soothing and relaxing way to go. Water Cleans You Better than Paper – Water is more effective at cleaning you than dry paper. But you knew that already. A New Standard of Comfort – Bidet seats provide a more soothing cleaning experience as opposed to using toilet paper. Cleaning with toilet paper is often abrasive to a person's sensitive areas. Plus toilet paper can contain perfumes which may lead to further irritation. Eco-Friendly – Over 9 million trees are cut down to manufacture U.S. toilet paper every year. By cutting back on our toilet paper consumption, we can reduce our overall paper waste.

Faucets on kitchen and bathroom sinks are great for people with arthritis or grip issues. You can also replace twist faucet handles with levers. Another popular faucet upgrade is installing anti-scald faucets in your parent’s tub or shower. Anti-scald faucets prevent sudden bursts of hot water if the cold water is temporarily redirected due to the toilet being flushed or the washing machine filling up. Another way to prevent scalding is to lower the maximum water temperature on your parents' water heater to 120 degrees or less.

A mat or non-slip adhesive strips applied to the bathtub and shower floor surface provides stable footing. Sometimes elders with decreased vision and poor depth perception view bathtub surfaces as "bottomless pits" and become fearful when entering. Placing a mat or strips on the tub/shower floor can eliminate this problem by providing visual cuing.

One-fourth of older Americans fall each year, according to the National Council on Aging. Every 19 minutes, a senior dies from a fall, and every 11 seconds, an older adult is sent to the emergency room for treatment for a fall-related injury. Falls in the home often result in minor injuries, but a fall in the bathroom can be fatal. Bathrooms can be a hazardous place for seniors, particularly those with balance issues. Common hazards include: Slippery floors in showers and bathtubs. Low toilet seats, shower chairs that are not slip-resistant, insufficiently secured grab bars or towel racks. A few simple changes can make the bathroom a safer place for seniors and reduce the risk of injury. Grab bars are essential for seniors with poor balance and difficulty getting in and out of the tub. Many seniors rely on towel bars to keep them steady and balanced when getting in and out of the bathtub, but these bars are not designed to support more than a few pounds of weight. Install grab bars in places that are easy to reach, so seniors can enter and exit the tub with greater ease.

Falls often occur when elders are getting in and out of the tub or shower. Having a non-slip mat (or decals) on the floor of the shower or tub as well as a non-slip rug on the floor when stepping out of tub or shower (to prevent slipping on wet tiles) helps the elder feel more stable and can reduces slipping. Stepping onto a towel is bad; the towel can easily slide away from underneath the feet. A non-slip rug in front of the toilet and by the sink area can help to reduce slipping on wet tiles.

Prior to having selective surgery done a certified aging in place specialist can work together with an P.T. to best determine your post surgery needs.

There are many benefits of a walk in tub. Walk-in tub benefits are many; from stress reduction, reliving sore aching muscles, hydrotherapy, and aromatherapy.They helps heal the mind, body, and soul in many ways. Walk in tubs offer a variety of spa systems that can help with pain and stress relief. ... Enjoying a safe, stress-free bathing experience is what every person deserves.

When it comes to aging in place, never underestimate the challenge of doing laundry. While it may seem like an easy activity, few daily tasks require you to use more electricity, lift more weight, or deal with a wider variety of chemicals. As you or your loved ones age, it is essential to make sure that your laundry room is safe, convenient, and easy to access. Creating an accessible laundry room is no simple matter. Not only do you have to accommodate many different types of equipment, but the room itself needs to be in a convenient location and properly organized.

Having a master bedroom on the first floor is ideal for aging in place being able to remain comfortably in your home without having to deal with stairs. It allows you easy and safe access to the rooms you'll use every day (kitchen, family room, laundry, garage).

AARP has found that grab bars and hand railings are the most often installed initial step taken by its clients. Strategically located grab bars and hand railings can be unobtrusive and address the #1 cause of injuries in older adults, falls.

Benefits of Installing a Wheelchair Ramp in Your Home. Wheelchair ramps enable physically disabled as well as elderly people to enjoy complete freedom, as they allow users to move in and around the home safely and freely. It is a cost-effective and practical solution to enhance mobility

A vertical platform lift is a specially designed lift that a person conveniently rolls into in the safety of his or her wheelchair or power chair and thereby has easy access to other levels of the office, home or property. Its optimal features include a weight capacity of up to 750 pounds, multiple stop configurations, safe and easy-to-operate controls, built in safety features and cost effective options.

There are several benefits of installing handrails next to your stairs, walkways, and other inclined areas. The biggest – and most obvious benefit is related to your safety while ascending and descending the slope or steps.

If your house has stairs, one of the best ways to reduce risk is to have a bathroom on the first floor. Some two-story homes, especially in certain parts of the country or in older, more established neighborhoods, have only one bathroom: upstairs, close to the bedrooms. While that made sense years ago, it also created problems for anyone who had trouble climbing stairs. Chair lifts can help with this, but a bathroom on the first floor is very important when you’re aging in place. If your home doesn’t have a lot of space on the first floor, getting a bathroom in there can seem difficult. But there are generally ways to make space. You may need to give up part or all of a bedroom, sun porch, patio, office, or another small room that you aren’t really using. A large closet can also be part of a bathroom conversion, if there is enough room. But keep in mind that the first floor bathroom must be accessible, and that means a bigger space that can accommodate a walker or a wheelchair. With a larger space, your first floor bathroom will be much safer and easier to use as you age. . Every bathroom should be a place to relax, de-stress, and recharge your body and soul.